By: Allie D’Andrea
Spending time in the backcountry is like hitting the reset button. The fresh air, open space to roam, and blanket of stars is paradise for anybody who appreciates the out-doors. One of the only things you’ll miss about home is your morning coffee. Here’s three easy ways to make coffee in the backcountry to bring a little bit of home to the outdoors.
1. AeroPress (espresso style)
The AeroPress hits the top of my list because it is lightweight, durable and compact, three words every backpacker loves to hear. They will run you just under $40 and allow you to use ground coffee to brew espresso style coffee in one minute without acidity or bitterness.
Add ground coffee to your press, add boiling water, stir, then press for 20-30 seconds. The secret to this delicious cup of joe is the total immersion of the coffee and air pressure extraction. Boom. Coffee heaven.
PRO TIP: Throw some Cacao Butter in and experience the chocolatey smooth flavor of Caveman Coffee from the Aeropress.
2. Reusable Coffee Filter (tea bag it)
A reusable coffee filter or tea filter weighs less than an ounce and can be stored in any mug or cup, making for a packable and weight-friendly option. Fill the filter with coffee grounds, place into a mug, pour hot water through it, and let it steep for a few minutes. Presto. This option won’t be as tasty as an AeroPress, but it will keep your pack light and will still provide that toasty cup of coffee.
3. DIY Coffee Bag (aka parachute style)
Coffee bags add minimal weight to a pack with virtually no waste; you can measure/weigh enough ground coffee ahead of time to make a single cup or a whole pot by simply determining how many cups you plan on making while in the backcountry.
Grab some sturdy paper filters, drop your desired amount into the filter, pin up the edges (like a parachute), and tie it shut with a piece of paracord or any other type of string (dental floss, or even hair ties will work). If you gather water from a stream or river, make sure to get it to a boil or pre-filter, then drop your coffee bag in the pot. Let it steep for 4-5 minutes and stir very gently. If any grounds manage to escape, they will settle to the bottom as the coffee cools.
Remember to store your Caveman coffee grounds in a tightly sealed zip lock bag with the air removed to preserve freshness (and keep them from spilling all over your pack) and enjoy the jubilant experience of backcountry coffee.
Written and created by Allie D'Andrea